The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 431

Chapter 431: His Scent

As Drayce and Slayer made their exit, Yorian also rose from his seat and turned to Oriana. "You can look after Prince Arlan. I’ll return later," he said.

Oriana nodded, acknowledging that there was no need for anyone to remain in the chamber while Arlan lay unconscious. She observed the three men vanishing from her sight and then decided to stay by Arlan’s side.

Meanwhile, at a distance, Drayce, Slayer, and Yorian gathered.

"What’s on your mind?" Drayce inquired, his gaze fixed on Yorian.

Yorian met Drayce’s gaze and began, "I’ve been contemplating how these two will eventually unveil the secrets they’re concealing from each other. Oriana is reluctant to reveal her true nature as a Black Witch, and Prince Arlan has yet to disclose that she is his chosen mate."

"We should refrain from intervening." Drayce’s expression turned serious as he responded, While it may appear so easy to us as outsiders, it’s an immensely challenging decision for Oriana given the complex situation between them and Arlan’s suffering due to a black witch. His hatred for Black Witches is deep rooted.

"Oriana fears the possibility of hatred she may see in his eyes, not just for her kind, but ultimately directed at her. In my opinion, it’s perfectly natural for anyone to be afraid when their truth has the potential to hurt someone they deeply care for. If I were in her shoes, I’d tremble at the thought of revealing anything to Seren that might cause her to despise me. I can’t even bear to imagine the moment that leads me to see hatred in Seren’s eyes for me and, knowing that I’d lose her."

Slayer and Yorian acknowledged his words with thoughtful hums.

"We know that her feelings for Arlan run deeper than mere care. Her hesitation is quite natural. It’s not that she’s afraid of the outcome, but she might not be prepared to face his reaction just yet. We should give her the time she needs," Drayce emphasized.

"What about letting her know she is Arlan’s mate so she can decide something against that witch’s plan about Prince Arlan?"

"Sharing that she’s Arlan’s mate is an intimate matter between them, particularly for beasts when they want to disclose it to their mate. It’s a moment that should belong to Arlan, and we shouldn’t take it away from him. Sooner or later, he’ll have to tell her."

Slayer who was quiet till now, spoke, "Moreover, even if we were to tell her, Arlan will make his choices to protect his family and Oriana. If we reveal it prematurely and she sees how he treats her despite being his chosen mate, it might only cause her pain and distract her from her goal of confronting the witch. Arlan is already burdened with the responsibility of protecting everyone, and we shouldn’t add to his worries. It’s easier for him to keep his distance from her while she’s unaware of being his mate."

Being Arlan’s friends, the two could clearly understand his intentions and his difficulties.

"They are destined mates, and no matter what happens, they’ll eventually come together. Their journey is filled with challenges, and we should allow them to navigate their own path, which may unveil many secrets and ultimately lead them to a peaceful life in the future."